What happened
During a cross-country flight, the pilot began descending toward the intended destination. During this phase, the pilot notified air traffic control that the right engine was unable to be retarded of power. Following this difficulty, the pilot elected to shut down the right engine entirely. After communicating the intent to divert to the closest available airport, the pilot received clearance from air traffic control to proceed to the nearest airfield.
Radar monitoring indicated the aircraft was maintaining a steady descent toward the airport. However, upon reaching an altitude of approximately 2,500 feet mean sea level, the pilot reported to air traffic control that they were struggling to maintain control of the aircraft. Radar data during this period showed the plane performing a full 360-degree turn to the right. The pilot subsequently notified controllers of an intention to land on a highway, after which all radio communication ceased.
As the aircraft descended through 1,300 feet mean sea level, radar contact was lost. An eyewitness observed the aircraft flying at a low altitude and low speed, noting that both propellers appeared to be spinning and no smoke was visible. The witness reported that the plane was traveling in a northeast to southwest direction when it suddenly pitched nose-first into the ground. The aircraft impacted a gravel road situated near a 100-foot tall grain silo, located roughly 3.3 miles from the airport and 1 mile from the highway.
Findings
- The pilot experienced a mechanical issue where the right engine would not respond to power reduction.
- The decision to shut down the right engine preceded the loss of flight control and the subsequent 360-degree turn recorded on radar.